Restructuring events
European Restructuring Monitor (ERM)
The restructuring events database contains factsheets with data on large-scale restructuring events reported in the principal national media and company websites in each EU Member State. This database was created in 2002.
Proximus is planning to accelerate the departure of older employees at the age of 58 years or more by means of an early retirement scheme. The objective is to reduce wage costs and in this way improve the group's competitive position in the European market. The measure will affect around 7% of the company's Belgian workforce (currently 14,000).
In a first reaction, the trade unions stated that they are prepared to discuss the proposal on the condition departures will be voluntary. They will also study the conditions of the early retirement scheme with a view to securing the employees' best interests.
Updated, 23 January 2016: The early departure plans for older employees have been expanded. An additional plan concerns all employees 60 years and older. They can voluntarily leave the company in a system of ‘leave preceding retirement’, paid at 75% of their last wage. Some 3,000 (Le Soir) to 4,000 (De Tijd) employees could make use of the system.
The government approved the plan, on condition that Proximus is responsible for all financial costs – though it should be pointed out that Proximus is majority owned (54%) by the state. The trade union is prepared to discuss the new departure scheme.
Eurofound (2015), Proximus, Internal restructuring in Belgium, factsheet number 85648, European Restructuring Monitor. Dublin, https://apps.eurofound.europa.eu/restructuring-events/detail/85648.